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| The Parks and Recreation Facebook page allows the city to network with residents and share upcoming events. |
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New Technology bringing new opportunities
Cody Zustiak
Review staff
Just a few years ago, if you told someone you "tweeted," "facebooked" and "texted" you may have been signed up for a psychiatric evaluation.
But as technology moves into the 21st century, we have become accustomed to making up new verbs like the ones above.
These new technologies are making it easier by the day for people, businesses and even cities to become better linked and more informed.
"The reality is that people are doing things more spontaneously, and technology is just critical to the success of our department and the city as well," said Oakdale Parks and Recreation Director Bruce Anderson.
Anderson said he attended a state seminar in Brooklyn Park, and that community is ahead of the game when it comes to using technology in daily life.
"They complied over 5,000 young people's cell phone numbers for emergencies," Anderson added.
After seeing firsthand how taking advantage of technology can inspire community togetherness, Anderson decided it was Oakdale's turn to do the same.
What Anderson has done is hire interns to get the city moving in the direction of instant communication.
Colin Ramsey, who is currently pursuing his master's degree, was hired as a summer intern with the objective of "bringing the city into the 21st century of technology."
With a presentation he gave at a city council meeting Aug. 11, it seemed the city is doing just that, which left the council impressed.
They could see the benefits of using new technologies to promote city activities.
"Anything we can do to get residents out to our many amenities, that's great," said council member Stan Karwoski.
Ramsey described how the city is now networking with area residents through Facebook, Twitter and text messaging.
"I had an elementary school friend track me down on Facebook and say, 'Hey, let's be friends,'" Ramsey said. "I haven't talked to him in 20 years, but that's what this technology is for, instantaneous communication."
Ramsey added that the city is using its Facebook and Twitter pages to keep community members updated with city events like the farmer's market and summer concert series, weather emergencies, e-mail lists and street closures.
They also provide real-time updates and another way to find people in the area.
One of the latest "tweets" the park and recreation department posted was a challenge for kids to stay fit.
"Watching tv? Turn it into a small workout, 5 situps or pushups for every commercial you see!"
The recreation department's Facebook page also has hours and contact information so youths can get involved with the city at a younger age.
It's also a place to give the city feedback.
"If somebody in the community has a problem or issue, it's another place for them to come and vent," Ramsey said. "At least we know if someone is having a problem so we can attend to it."
Ramsey finished his internship with the city last week, and Mayor Carmen Sarrack was happy to hear another intern will be taking over the workload.
"I don't think Bruce (Anderson) is going to get it," he said with a chuckle.
To visit Oakdale's Facebook and Twitter pages go to http://www.ci.oakdale.mn.us/ and click on the links at the bottom of the page.
Cody Zustiak can be reached at staffwriter@lillienews.com or 651-748-7824.
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